DE102012014910A1 - User interface, method for displaying information and program facilitating operation of an operator interface - Google Patents

Abstract

A user interface (100) according to an exemplary embodiment comprises a touch-sensitive display element (110) and at least one sensor (120), which are designed to display information on the display element (110) to a user, in order for the display element (110) to be touched by a user To register the touch element (150) by the user and to register a presence of the touch element (150) in a detection area (170), the detection area (170) adjoining a side of the display element (110) facing the user. It also includes a control circuit (130) which is designed to control the display element (110) in such a way that it reproduces information on the display element (110) which facilitates operation of the operating interface (100) when the touch element (150) is pressed during a predetermined period of time in the detection area (170) without a touch of the display element (110) being registered during this. This may make it easier and more intuitive to operate a system that includes such a user interface (100).

Description

The invention relates to an operator interface, a method for displaying an information user interface and a program, with a program code for performing such a method. These can be used, for example, for operating a multi-function system of a motor vehicle or for operating other electrical and electronic systems, for example home entertainment systems.

In many areas of technology, the functional diversity of electrical and electronic components is steadily increasing. Examples include home entertainment systems as well as multi-function systems, such as those used in the field of motor vehicles. Such multi-function systems may include, for example, functions of a navigation system, an entertainment system, a data networking system, and the air conditioning components of the vehicle and other vehicle-specific components.

In order to enable a user of these systems as simple and intuitive operation as possible, today touch-sensitive display elements are often used, which are also referred to as touch screens. On these, context-sensitive information can be displayed, for example, virtual. Controls and other components that the user can select or activate by touching them.

Such multimedia information and control systems are for example from the EP 0 956 219 B1 and the DE 10 2009 059 867 A1 known. The last-mentioned document thus describes, for example, a method and a device for providing a graphical user interface, which makes it possible to move objects displayed on a display surface by means of a gesture.

But non-contact display and control devices are used in the context of a motor vehicle, via which a corresponding selection is possible. For example, describes the DE 10 2007 029 618 A1 a contactless activatable display and operating device which is operable in different operating modes.

In these and similar systems, however, it can now happen that a variety of different information is made available to a user at the same time. In addition to virtual controls, such as virtual buttons and virtual sliding or rotary controls, this information is often also displayed that just do not allow interaction with the user. These may include, but are not limited to, background maps, maps, and other information and objects.

With an increasing number of the available functions of such a system, such an operation of the same can possibly present the user with greater challenges. These may be exacerbated if the system in question is used in an environment in which the user's attention is not fully available to them. In the case of a motor vehicle, this may be the case, for example, when the user is the driver of the motor vehicle and, at the same time, has to pay attention to the surroundings and the traffic situation while driving.

There is therefore a need to make operation of such a system simpler and more intuitive.

This need is borne by an operator interface according to claim 1, a method for displaying an operator interface operation facilitating information according to claim 13 and a program with a program code for carrying out such a method according to claim 15.

An embodiment of an operator interface includes a touch-sensitive display element and at least one sensor configured to display information on the display element to a user to register a touch of the display element with a touch element by the user and to indicate a presence of the touch element in a detection area Register, with the detection area to a the User facing side of the display element connects. The control interface further comprises a control circuit which is designed to control the display element in such a way that it reproduces an information on the display element facilitating operation of the operating interface when the touch element is in the detection area for a predetermined period of time without touching the touchscreen Display element was registered.

A method according to an embodiment for displaying an information interface facilitating operation of an operator interface comprises displaying information on a touch-sensitive display element of the operator interface, registering a presence of a touch element in a detection area, the detection area being connected to a user-facing side of the display element, and reproducing the information facilitating the operation of the operation interface when the touch element is in the detection area for a predetermined period of time without registering a touch of the display element.

Also, embodiments include a program having program code for performing such a method according to an embodiment when executing the program code on a computer, a processor, or a programmable hardware component. Such a programmable hardware component may, for example, also be a control unit and another hardware-based system of a motor vehicle.

Embodiments is thus based on the finding that the operation of a system which implements an exemplary embodiment can be facilitated and made more intuitive by reproducing the information facilitating the operation of the user interface when the touch element, with the aid of which the touch-sensitive display element is operated takes place in the detection area over the predetermined period of time away, without that it has meanwhile come to a touch of the display element. In such a situation, it can be assumed, for example, that the user searches on the touch-sensitive display element for information, a virtual control element or another object and does not find what he actually expects there. In such a case, the user's attention can be directed to the available options and options by the corresponding fading in the information facilitating the operation, whereby the operation of the user interface can possibly be simplified and made more intuitive.

If, in addition, it is a user interface implemented in the context of a motor vehicle, it may result in less distraction of the user, who may also act as driver, due to the ease of operation. In this way, if necessary, a traffic safety can be increased.

In this case, the detection area represents a volume which, for example, can directly adjoin the side of the display element facing the user. The detection area thus does not represent a portion of the display element with a corresponding display surface, but rather extends perpendicular to this in a space area through which the user's touch element is moved to touch the display element, so as to trigger a corresponding action or perform.

The control circuit may be configured to detect a period of time during which the touch element is in the detection area. On the basis of the time period thus determined, the latter can then check whether the detected time duration coincides with or exceeds the predetermined time span. If this is the case, the control circuit can reproduce the information facilitating the operation of the user interface on the display element.

In order to control the touch-sensitive display element, the control circuit can be coupled with the touch-sensitive display element in information technology. The control circuit and the touch-sensitive display element can thus communicate with one another via the exchange of information-encompassing or information-carrying signals. In this case, the control circuit can, for example, transmit control signals to the display element, while the touch-sensitive display element and optionally the at least one sensor can transmit corresponding detection or sensor signals to the control circuit.

Information-carrying signals can thus be transmitted, for example, by means of electrical, optical or other signals and a combination thereof. They can be exchanged between the respective components by means of individual cables, but also by means of bus systems or a combination of both. The information-carrying signals can be designed to be continuous or discrete both in terms of their signal strength and in terms of their time course. The signals can thus represent, for example, analog signals, but also digital signals.

Optionally, the touch-sensitive display element and the at least one sensor may be configured such that the detection area substantially completely encloses the touch-sensitive display element so that the touch element must pass the detection area when the user moves the touch element to the touch-sensitive display element. As a result, the operation of the system can optionally be further simplified and made more intuitive, since it may be possible to prevent the contact element from being guided to the display element without the control circuit not registering a lingering of the contact element in front of the display element. So the operating safety of the Improved user interface with regard to the detection of the residence of the contact element, his reactions made more reliable and thus simplifies the operation of the system and made more intuitive.

Optionally, in an operator interface according to an embodiment, the control circuit may be configured such that the predetermined period of time is at least 3 seconds. In other embodiments, the predetermined period of time may be at least 5 seconds, at least 8 seconds, at least 10 seconds, or at least 15 seconds. This may make it possible to further simplify the operation of such a system and to make it more intuitive, on the one hand a rapid movement of the touch element through the detection area does not lead to an information facilitating the operation, on the other hand, however, not too long residence in the detection area required is to display this to the user.

Optionally, in an operator interface according to an embodiment, the control circuit may be configured such that the predetermined period of time is independent of movement of the touch element in or through the detection area. Thus, the fading in the information facilitating the operation can be made more reliable, which in turn can lead to a simpler and more intuitive operation of the system. Thus, just in one embodiment of an operator interface, the way in which the touch element moves in the detection area can be disregarded in the question as to whether the information facilitating the operation is displayed on the display element or not. This may be useful, for example, if a movement of the contact element is possibly disturbed, but at least influenced, by forces acting on it. This can occur, for example, in the motor vehicle sector if the contact element is moved by a movement of the motor vehicle which the user can not or can not completely compensate.

Optionally, in the case of an operator interface according to one exemplary embodiment, the control circuit may be designed to control the display element in such a way that the reproduction of the information facilitating operation comprises an optical highlighting of at least one virtual operating element displayed on the display element. Such a virtual control element may comprise, for example, a virtual button, a virtual switch, a virtual button, a virtual slider, a virtual dial, a virtual detection field, a virtual two-dimensional switch or another virtual corresponding control. Depending on the specific embodiment, in this case, for example, an edge of the at least one virtual operating element can be made with thicker and / or color-highlighted lines. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one virtual control element can also be highlighted in color. As an alternative or in addition, this can be shown enlarged. Likewise, additionally or alternatively, the at least one virtual operating element can be reproduced in a three-dimensional or in an intensified three-dimensional representation. Also, additionally or alternatively, the at least one virtual operating element can be displayed pulsating and / or with a luminous appearance surrounding its edge at least partially or completely.

Optionally, in addition, the control circuit of a user interface according to an embodiment may be designed to control the display element such that the reproduction of the operation facilitating information includes a representation of an auxiliary menu and / or an auxiliary display. Depending on the specific application situation, such an attention of the user can be directed to at least one virtual operating element or a line of the user can be made possible by fading in an auxiliary menu or a corresponding auxiliary display. As a result, the operation of a system on which the user interface according to an exemplary embodiment is based can be simplified and made more intuitive, irrespective of the respectively implemented reproduction of the information facilitating the operation.

Optionally, in the case of an operator interface according to one exemplary embodiment, the control circuit can be designed to make it possible to deactivate the reproduction of the information facilitating the operation of the operator interface. As a result, it may be possible to increase the acceptance of the user of this system, since this can influence the situations in which the corresponding information facilitating the operation is displayed. This can be done, for example, context-sensitive. Thus, by means of this measure, the operation of a corresponding system can optionally be simplified and made more intuitive, if necessary.

Optionally, in an operator interface according to an embodiment, the touch-sensitive display element and the at least one sensor may further be configured to register presence of the touch element in another detection area and the detection area, the further detection area being located on a user-facing side of the detection area followed. In such a case, the control circuit may be further configured to activating the display element in such a way that it reproduces another information facilitating the operation of the operating interface when the contact element is in the further detection area and / or in the detection area for a further predetermined period of time without a touch of the display element being registered during this time period. The detection area and the further detection area can thus form, for example, a common inspection area.

In other words, the controller may be configured to change a representation of information displayed on the display element. This may make it possible, if necessary, to bring about a steering of the user by this change when the touch element is in the further detection area adjoining the detection area, without a touch of the display element being registered during the further predetermined period of time. This also makes it possible, if appropriate, to operate a system on which the user interface is based, in a simpler and more intuitive manner, in which the modified display is less prominent, for example, than the information described above which facilitates operation. It can be implemented as a two-stage display of appropriate information. Also, this may optionally increase the acceptance of such a user interface according to one embodiment by the user.

Optionally, the control circuit can in this case also be designed in such a way that only the further detection area in connection with the further predetermined period of time is checked for a presence of the contact element. A review of the detection area can be omitted if necessary. In this case, the above-mentioned check area may include only the further recognition area adjoining the recognition area.

The additional detection area can optionally connect directly to the detection area. Likewise, with such an operator interface, the control circuit can in turn optionally be configured to detect the time duration during which the touch element is located in the further detection area. Likewise, in the examination of the presence of the touch element in the further detection area in connection with the predetermined further period of time, the detection area can be disregarded such that the control circuit only controls the display element in such a way that it reproduces the further information facilitating the operation of the operating interface Touching element during the further predetermined period of time is located in the further detection area, without that during this period a touch of the display element has been registered.

Optionally, in an operator interface according to an embodiment, the touch-sensitive display element and the at least one sensor may be configured such that the further detection area substantially completely encloses the detection area such that the touch element must pass the further detection area when the user places the touch element in the detection area emotional. This also makes it possible to enable a more reliable response of a user interface with regard to the further detection area, since it is essentially impossible to pass the operating element on to the further detection area. Thus, the operation of the system can be simplified and made more intuitive if necessary.

As has already been explained in connection with the detection area, the control circuit can optionally be configured in such a way that the further predetermined period of time at least 3 s, in other embodiments, at least 5 s, at least 8 s, at least 10 s in an operating interface according to an embodiment or at least 15 s. This also makes it possible, if appropriate, to simplify and make more intuitive the operation of a corresponding system, since the display on the display element is changed accordingly only after the further predetermined period of time has elapsed and the further information is reproduced. A distraction of the user can thus be avoided if necessary. As an alternative or in addition, a sense of the user may possibly be avoided in such a way that this is disturbed by the changed representation and thus possibly. Thus, an acceptance of such a user interface can be increased again if necessary, whereby the operation of the system can still be simplified and made more intuitive in case of need. The predetermined period of time and the further predetermined period of time can optionally be identical here, but also be of different lengths. This may make it possible, if necessary, to simplify an implementation or else as a function of a distance of the contact element 150 from the display element 110 to adjust a corresponding period of time, from when the further information or a corresponding operation facilitating information is displayed. A separate implementation of the further predetermined period of time may also be omitted here.

As has already been explained in connection with the detection area, the control circuit can optionally also be designed such that the further predetermined period of time is independent of a movement of the touch element in or through the further detection area in an operator interface according to an embodiment. This also makes operation of the system possibly simpler and more intuitive, since movements of the contact element, which are caused by an unwanted movement of the contact element, may not be considered further.

Optionally, in an operating interface according to an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit may be configured to control the display element in such a way that the reproduction of the further information facilitating the operation of the operating interface comprises a discreet highlighting of at least one virtual operating element displayed on the display element. This subtle emphasis can also be made for example by one of the options mentioned above. Alternatively or additionally, the control circuit may also be designed such that it controls the display element in such a way that the reproduction of the further information facilitating the operation of the operating interface comprises a representation of an auxiliary menu and / or an auxiliary display. Optionally, this can be the auxiliary menu already mentioned above or the auxiliary display mentioned above. However, it can also be a different further auxiliary menu or a different further auxiliary display. This also allows an optionally context-sensitive steering of the user to be made possible, whereby the operation of the system is possibly simplified and more intuitive.

Optionally, in an operator interface according to an exemplary embodiment, the touch-sensitive display element and the at least one sensor may be designed such that the contact element comprises at least a part of a finger and / or at least a part of a hand. As a result, the operation of the system can optionally be further simplified and made more intuitive by an immediate touch of the display element by the user is possible.

A method for displaying information facilitating operation of an operator interface may optionally further comprise detecting a period of time during which the touch element is in the detection area without registering a touch of the display element, as previously explained in connection with the operator interface has been. Likewise, a method according to an embodiment may further include registering a touch of the touch-sensitive display element with the touch element by a user. Upon registering the touch, an action may then be initiated or performed. In the case of an implementation of a user interface according to an embodiment, for example, the control circuit may be designed accordingly.

In one embodiment of such a method, the aforementioned method steps in the specified, but also optionally in a different order can be performed. Thus, if appropriate, individual process steps can take place simultaneously, but at least overlap in time, unless otherwise stated in the description or the technical context.

Adjacent are two objects, between which no further object of the same type is arranged. Immediately adjacent are corresponding objects when they are adjacent, that is, for example, in contact with each other. Electrical or other components are coupled to each other indirectly via another component or directly to each other such that they allow a signal exchange between the components in question. Thus, the corresponding coupling sections or completely, for example, implemented electrically and optically, magnetically or by radio technology and implemented.

Hereinafter, embodiments will be described and explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

1 shows a front view of a user interface according to an embodiment;

2 shows a side view of in 1 shown operating interface according to an embodiment;

3 shows a schematically simplified perspective view of a user interface according to another embodiment;

4 shows a page representation of in 3 shown operating interface according to an embodiment;

5a shows a schematic representation of a virtual control element;

5b shows a schematic representation of the in 5a shown virtual control element, which is subtly highlighted;

5c shows that in the 5a and 5b shown virtual control element, which is highlighted by the use of a three-dimensional representation and a lighting effect; and

6 shows a flowchart of a method for displaying an easier to operate the user interface information according to an embodiment.

In the following description of the attached figures showing embodiments, like reference numerals designate like or similar components. Further, summary reference numbers are used for components and objects that occur multiple times in one embodiment or in a drawing, but are described together in terms of one or more features. Components or objects which are described by the same or by the same reference numerals may be the same, but possibly also different, in terms of individual, several or all features, for example their dimensions, unless otherwise explicitly or implicitly stated in the description.

1 shows a front view of a user interface 100 according to an embodiment. 2 shows a corresponding side view of the user interface 100 out 1 ,

The user interface 100 includes a touch-sensitive display element 110 and at least one sensor 120 , In the in the 1 and 2 embodiment shown has the user interface 100 two sensors 120-1 . 120-2 on, with the sensor 120-2 as part of the touch-sensitive display element 110 is executed. In other embodiments, however, may also be a larger or a smaller number of sensors 120 be implemented. These are together with the touch-sensitive display element 110 designed to the following functions in conjunction with a control circuit 130 the operator interface 100 perform.

For this purpose, the one or more sensors 120 and the touch-sensitive display element 110 with the control circuit 130 coupled such that it can be exchanged between these information-conveying signals. This can be, for example, electrical, optical or other signals that can be transmitted for example via individual lines, but also via data buses or a combination thereof. The respective signals exchanged between the components can be designed to be discrete or continuous independently of each other both in terms of their signal strengths and in terms of their time course. Thus, for example, analog signals, but also digital signals between the components in question can be exchanged.

So can the sensors 120 For example, corresponding sensor signals of the control circuit 130 to transfer. The same may possibly also for the touch-sensitive display element 110 be valid. In addition, the control circuit 130 the touch-sensitive display element 110 and optionally the sensors 120 also transmit control signals.

While the touch-sensitive display element 110 is designed to be one in the 1 and 2 Users not shown to display information are the sensors 120 optionally together with the display element 110 designed to perform various functions, which are described in more detail below.

To provide the user with an indication of the aforementioned information, the touch-sensitive display element 110 a display area 140 which may be, for example, a matrix-based display surface, which allows a monochrome and / or multicolor display of information, objects and other structures.

The sensors 120 or the touch-sensitive display element 110 On the other hand, they are designed to touch the display element 110 , so for example the display area 140 with a contact element 150 which is, for example, a finger 160 , part of it or any other part of a user's hand can register. Captures the touch-sensitive display element 110 or a corresponding sensor 120 For example, in the touch-sensitive display element 110 integrated sensor 120-2 Before such contact, the display element 110 or the sensor 120 a corresponding sensor signal of the control circuit 130 to transfer. This can then trigger or perform a specific action, as long as it matches a previously defined set of rules or conditions, such as context-sensitive from those on the display area 140 may depend on the information displayed. For example, the user can use a virtual control element with the touch element 150 touch, whereupon the control circuit 130 executes a function associated with the virtual control element in question or causes it to function by transmitting or relaying a corresponding control signal.

Next to the finger 160 or a part of the same, the sensors 120 and / or the touch-sensitive display element 110 Also be designed so that it is another part of the user's hand as a touch 150 recognize, with the help of the triggering or performing an action by touching the display element 110 with the contact element 150 can be caused.

The sensors 120 and the touch-sensitive display element 110 are further configured such that they have a presence of the contact element 150 in a detection area 170 to register in the 1 and 2 is shown as a dashed line and to a user-facing side of the display element 110 followed. In the embodiment shown here, the detection area closes 170 directly to the display surface 140 of the display element 110 at. The detection area 170 is here designed so that this is the display element 110 or its display area 140 essentially so completely encloses, so that the contact element 150 the detection area 170 must happen when the user touch the element 150 to the display element 110 leads or moves. The detection area thus extends from the display surface 140 or the display element 110 perpendicular to them in a room facing the user. The recognition area thus represents a volume of the room.

Now recognize the control circuit 130 in that the contact element 150 during a predetermined period of time in the detection area 170 is located, but without a touch of the display element during that time 110 , so for example the display area 140 , was registered, this can be the display element 110 so control that on the display element 110 an information facilitating operation of the user interface is displayed or reproduced. For this purpose, the control circuit 130 for example, detect a period of time during which the touch element 150 in the detection area 170 located. If this detected time period exceeds or corresponds to the predetermined period of time, the control circuit can 130 conclude that the user is unsure about the operation of the user interface, if in this period a contact of the display element has been omitted by the user. The predetermined period of time may be, for example, at least 3 s, at least 5 s, at least 8 s, at least 10 s or at least 15 s, depending on the implementation and application. Optionally, it can, in particular, be independent of a movement of the contact element 150 in the detection area 170 or be through this.

The sensors 120 For example, they may be implemented as resistive sensors, capacitive sensors, optical sensors or ultrasound-based sensors, with the aid of which a touch of the display element 110 with the contact element 150 or an approximation thereof, that is, a presence of the touch element 150 in the detection area 170 can be registered. Likewise, if appropriate, thermal sensors can also be used, which emit heat from a finger 160 or another part of the human hand, thus approximating the hand, the finger 160 and optionally also a touch of the same with the display element 110 to detect.

In the field of capacitive sensors, for example, those can be used in which a high-frequency field between the user and the display element is used, the signal strength and / or phase storage of a distance of the user, ie in particular his finger 160 or his hand from the display element 110 depends. If, for example, different frequencies are used in the motor vehicle area for the driver and front passenger as well as possibly other passengers, the control circuit can thus be used 130 For example, also capture which user the display element 110 served.

Similarly, optical sensors can be used, which include, for example, camera-based systems. Alternatively or additionally, in the area of the optical sensors, in addition to the previously mentioned heat radiation-based sensors, for example infrared sensors, those in which signals from light-emitting diodes are detected and checked, for example, for an interruption, reflection or other beam changes. The same applies to ultrasound-based systems as well.

At least one of the sensors 120 can thus optionally be implemented as a proximity sensor, which is why in connection with a user interface 100 According to one embodiment, also spoken by an operator interface with a single-stage, two-stage or multi-stage proximity sensor.

Activates the user's hand the proximity sensor and has been in the detection area for 3, 5, 8, 10 or 15 s, also known as the trigger area 170 without touching the indicator 110 (Touch event) can take place via the control circuit 130 on the display element 110 one is the operation of the user interface 100 facilitating information is displayed. For example, on the display area 140 then a help menu and / or a Auxiliary display for operating the user interface 100 , which is also referred to as a touch screen, are displayed. Thus, for example, as an auxiliary menu or auxiliary display, a corresponding representation can be selected in which, for example, individual virtual control elements are explained or explained with respect to their functionality. Thus, for example, pop-up auxiliary windows can be realized, with the aid of which optionally an operation of the user interface 100 can be relieved. If necessary, new, context-sensitive help menus can also be displayed, via which an operation of the user interface can also be made simpler and more intuitive.

Alternatively or additionally, the user interface 100 or the control circuit 130 be designed so that, for example, if a hand of the user, the proximity sensor (sensors 120 ) and has been in the detection area for, for example, 3, 5, 8, 10 or 15 seconds 170 is located without any contact with the display element 110 may have occurred on the display area 140 which is also referred to as a screen, screen or display, which are even more clearly emphasized the operable virtual controls, such as for example, bold lines, a larger representation, a three-dimensional representation, a strong three-dimensional representation, an animation, additional shadows, glowing, a higher contrast, stronger colors or a more photorealistic representation can be used.

Of course, it may be advisable to increase the acceptance of a user to such a system, the playback of the operation of the user interface 100 facilitating information on the display element 110 can be switched off or switched off. Thus, for example, a corresponding help display in a settings menu be executed switched off.

Operator interface 100 according to one embodiment, this can be used in a variety of applications. They can be used for example in the automotive sector to operate there integrated multifunction systems, for example, a navigation system, an entertainment system (infotainment system), a data exchange system, by means of which, for example, data can be exchanged over a mobile phone connection to the Internet, and systems for climate control and other vehicle-related systems can be made. Embodiments of a user interface 100 Thus, for example, they can be implemented as a touch-screen infotainment system with a single-stage proximity sensor, such as this in connection with the 1 and 2 however, may also be implemented with a two-stage or multi-stage proximity sensor system.

Likewise, however, embodiments of an operator interface can also be used in other electrical and electronic components, which include, for example, systems in the home, such as entertainment systems (home entertainment).

Of course, in embodiments of a user interface 100 According to one embodiment, not all of the previously described embodiments and features are implemented. For example, an embodiment with regard to the geometric arrangement of the detection area 170 to the display elements 110 or the display area 140 be configured differently. Likewise, if appropriate, the control circuit may deviate from the previously described embodiments with regard to the configuration of the predetermined period of time. Also, if necessary, a shutdown of the playback of the operation facilitating information as an optional component can be omitted.

Not least with regard to the number and type of sensors used, some of them within the scope of the display element 110 can be implemented, various operating interfaces 100 deviate from others according to one embodiment. So can the sensors 120 completely or partially as part of the touch-sensitive display elements 110 be implemented. However, it is also possible to additionally or alternatively use external sensors 120 can be used, which allow the functions described above.

In the in the 1 and 2 shown embodiment of a user interface 100 Thus, for example, a time or duration can be measured in which the hand, the finger, can be measured 160 or another touch element 150 in the detection area 170 located. Relevant here is the time during which the hand, the finger 160 or the touch element 150 the display element 110 , so the touch screen is not touched, but in the detection area 170 located. It can thus in response to an approach of the contact element 150 if there is no touch (touch), corresponding information is displayed.

3 shows a schematically simplified block diagram of another embodiment of an operating system 100 in a perspective view, which differs from the in 1 and 2 shown operating interface 100 essentially with regard to the design of the detection area 170 and another detection area 180 different. To make this distinction clearer is in 3 a perspective view of the user interface 100 been chosen while 4 a in 2 similar side view of the control interface 100 shows.

The in the 3 and 4 shown operating interface 100 differs from the previously described essentially in that now next to the detection area 170 , which in the present case is made smaller in space than was previously the case in the exemplary embodiment, another detection area 180 is implemented. The further detection area 180 closes here to the detection area 170 on a user-facing side of the same. Again, the further detection area may be 180 directly to the detection area 170 connect and optionally be configured so that the detection area substantially completely includes so that the touch 150 , which in the 3 and 4 not shown is the detection area 170 only reach if this previously the other detection area 180 happened or moved through it. In other words, the further detection area 180 the detection area 170 essentially so completely enclosing, so that the contact element 150 (not shown in 3 and 4 ) the further detection area 180 happens when the user touches the touch element 150 in the detection area 170 emotional.

The control circuit 130 can also be designed in such a case that this is the display element 110 or the display area 140 controls such that this is a modified representation of the on the display element 110 shown used when the touch element 150 during another predetermined time period in the further detection area 180 and / or the detection area 170 is located without any contact with the display element during this time 110 is registered. The control circuit 130 So another can be the operation of the operating system 100 facilitating information on the display element 110 or its display area 140 be reproduced. For this purpose, the control circuit 130 be formed accordingly to detect a period of time during which the contact element 150 in the further detection area 180 or in the detection area 170 located. Optionally, the control circuit 130 Here also only the further detection area 180 as part of the reproduction of further information.

The further detection area 180 Thus, for example, starting from the display element 110 or his display area 140 from a few centimeters to a few tens of centimeters to the side facing the user. The further detection area 180 For example, it may have a boundary facing the user and a distance from the display surface 140 or the display element 110 of, for example, 5 to 50 cm, for example, of about 20 cm.

In contrast, the detection area may be 170 starting from the display element 110 or his display area 140 less to the user. This can extend for example at most 10 cm towards the user. For example, a boundary of the detection area 170 , which faces the user and at the same time a boundary of the further detection area 180 represents a distance from the display element 110 or the display area 140 of about 5 cm.

Accordingly, the at least one sensor 120 and the touch-sensitive display element 110 be further designed to also the presence of the contact element 150 in the further detection area 180 to register and via a corresponding signal of the control circuit 130 to convey. The further detection area 180 closes here, as already explained, to the detection area 170 on a user-facing side.

The further period of time during which the contact element 150 in the further detection area 180 stops without any registration of touching the display element 110 may again, for example, be at least 3 seconds, at least 5 seconds, at least 8 seconds, at least 10 seconds, or at least 15 seconds. Again, the further predetermined period of time corresponding to a movement of the contact element 150 in or through the wider detection area 180 be independent.

Now recognizes the control circuit that during the predetermined further period of time, the control element 150 in the further detection area 180 has been found, but not to a touch of the display element 110 has come, this can the display element 110 so control that this one more the operation of the user interface 100 facilitating information on the display element 110 reproduces. Again, this in turn, for example, a discreet highlighting at least one virtual control element shown on the display element or also display or display the help menu or another help menu and / or the auxiliary display or another auxiliary display.

Of course, the changing of the representation can optionally be configured as an optional component switched off or switched off.

The 3 and 4 So so show an embodiment of a user interface 100 according to an embodiment, in which a two-stage proximity sensor using the sensors 120 is implemented. If the user's hand activates the proximity sensor and has been in the first trigger area for 3, 5, 8, 10 or 15 s (further detection area 180 ) or the second trigger area (detection area 170 ) without touching the display element 110 (Touch Event) has occurred on the display panel 140 for example, the previously mentioned further help menu or help menu for operating the user interface 100 to be displayed. Additionally or alternatively, virtual controls can be used on the display element 110 as part of the change of presentation on the display element 110 for example discreetly highlighted.

If, for example, a two-stage proximity sensor system is implemented, for example, three different display variants for a virtual operator control element can be implemented. For example, is the touch element 150 neither in the detection area nor in the further detection area 180 Thus, when approximated, the virtual control in question, for example, small and without frames, can be shown as a two-dimensional representation. Optionally, a graphical representation can also be completely eliminated or its transparency set to 100%. Now, from the approximated state, the contact element 150 approximated so that this in a first stage in the wider detection area 180 penetrates, the virtual control element can for example be displayed larger and / or with a frame, but it can also be used a three-dimensional representation and / or have a corresponding filling. Penetrates the touch element into the detection area 170 There and lingers there the corresponding period of time, the virtual control element can possibly even larger, with a richer frame, in the context of a three-dimensional representation and / or with a filling and possibly lighting effects (Glow) are displayed.

Thus, in the context of the use of a two-stage proximity sensor, for example, a third stage of the display of operable elements can be implemented. As a result, not only an operation of the system can optionally be simplified and made more intuitive, this can also be done within a visually pleasing overall concept, so that perceived as a pleasant staging of the information in question on the display area 140 is possible. The use of such an approach sensor system can thus, for example, enable a better recognizability of the operating elements and thus a simpler and more intuitive operability with a simultaneously graceful design in the approximated state, as described above.

Of course, this implementation can also be made switchable so as to improve the acceptance by the user. The third display can thus be switched off, for example, in a setting menu. In other words, in one embodiment, an operator interface may optionally be configured to disable the use of the altered representation of the information displayed on the display element.

5a shows such a virtual control 190 , which may be, for example, a virtual touchpad, which is also referred to as a button. This shows 5a For example, a state in which the contact element 150 not in one of the detection areas 170 . 180 Stops or has not yet exceeded the predetermined period of time or predetermined additional period of time.

Is the contact element 150 in the further detection area 180 longer than the predetermined additional period of time, the control circuit can display on the display elements 110 For example, to change the information displayed so that the virtual control 190 is emphasized by using stronger lines, as for example in 5b is shown.

If, on the other hand, the contact element stops 150 more than the predetermined period of time in the detection area 170 on, without causing a touch of the display element 110 has come, can the control circuit 130 the display element 110 so drive, so the virtual control 190 For example, it is displayed three-dimensionally with a corresponding luminous effect around its edge. In addition to this can also be a font size of the label of the virtual control 190 be enlarged, like this 5c shows.

This is the way the virtual controls work 190 in the 5a and 5b identically sized captions "EXIT" on while in 5c the representation of the word "EXIT" enlarged, so with a correspondingly larger font size. Of course, the described emphasis and the labels used are only a few examples.

Of course, other changes in the representation of on the display element 110 reproduced information or a reproduction of a corresponding operation of the user interface facilitating information on the display element 110 respectively.

Also related to the in the 3 and 4 In the embodiment shown, it goes without saying that not all of the embodiments described above must be implemented within the scope of other exemplary embodiments. Here, too, may deviations, for example, with regard to the geometric arrangement of the detection areas 170 . 180 be implemented, just to give an example.

6 finally shows a flowchart of a method for displaying an operation of a user interface 100 facilitating information. First, as part of a step S100, information is displayed on the display element 110 or the display area 140 displayed. Subsequently, in a step S110, a presence of the touch element is attempted 150 in the detection area 170 to register. For this purpose, as part of a step S120, a time duration is detected accordingly. In a step S130, an attempt is made to register a touch. In this case, if such has been registered, the action associated with the touch is triggered in a step S140 before the method ends in a step S150.

However, if no touch is registered in the step S130, it is checked in a step 160 whether the predetermined time has elapsed. If this is the case, the operation of the operator interface can be performed in step S170 100 facilitating information on the display element 110 are reproduced before the process ends again in step S150. If, on the other hand, this is not the case, that is, the predetermined period of time has not yet elapsed, a return to step S100 of the display of the information can take place, so that again, for example, a presence of the contact element in the detection area 170 registered, the duration can be detected and a check for the presence of a touch can be performed again.

Optionally, of course, in a step S180, between checking whether the predetermined time has elapsed (step S160) and reproducing the information in step S170, a check may be made as to whether the reproduction is turned off.

If this is not the case, a corresponding reproduction of the information can take place in step S170, while in the other case the method can be ended in step S150.

The method described above is one that can be implemented using, for example, a single-stage proximity sensor. But even in the context of a two-stage sensor, this procedure can, as related to 6 previously described, be implemented. However, in addition, it may additionally register a presence of the touch element in the further detection area 180 in the context of a step S190, which, for example, after displaying the information on the display element, the step S100 can be performed. Likewise, in a step S200, it can be checked whether the predetermined additional period of time has passed without a touch being registered. The step S200 may thus be performed, for example, after the step S130 of checking if a touch has been registered. If it is determined in the check whether the predetermined additional period of time has elapsed that this is the case, directly or indirectly, after, for example, the steps S160 and S180 in the context of step S170, the display of information on the display element 110 changed or the further the operation of the user interface 100 facilitating information is displayed. On the other hand, if this is not the case, then a return to a step after the display of the information on the display element can take place 110 in step S100.

Of course, in embodiments of such a method, the steps described differ in their order from each other, possibly parallel or temporally overlapping to each other, unless otherwise stated in the description of the same.

Through the use of an embodiment may optionally be an operation of a system that has such a user interface 100 includes, made simpler and more intuitive.

The features disclosed in the preceding description, in the following claims and in the attached figures can be important and implemented individually as well as in any combination for the realization of an embodiment in its various embodiments.

Although some aspects have been described in the context of a device, it should be understood that these aspects also constitute a description of the corresponding method such that a block or device of a device is also to be understood as a corresponding method step or as a feature of a method step. Similarly, aspects described in connection with or as a method step also represent a description of a corresponding block or detail or feature of a corresponding device.

Depending on particular implementation requirements, embodiments of the invention may be implemented in hardware or in software. The implementation may be performed using a digital storage medium, such as a floppy disk, a DVD, a Blue-Ray Disc, a CD, a ROM, a PROM, an EPROM, an EEPROM or FLASH memory, a hard disk, or other magnetic disk or optical memory are stored on the electronically readable control signals, which can cooperate with a programmable hardware component or cooperate such that the respective method is performed.

A programmable hardware component may be integrated by a processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a computer, a computer system, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) Circuit (IC), a system on chip (SOC), a programmable logic element or a field programmable gate array with a microprocessor (FPGA = Field Programmable Gate Array) may be formed.

The digital storage medium may therefore be machine or computer readable. Thus, some embodiments include a data carrier having electronically readable control signals capable of interacting with a programmable computer system or programmable hardware component such that one of the methods described herein is performed. One embodiment is thus a data carrier (or a digital storage medium or a computer readable medium) on which the program is recorded for performing any of the methods described herein.

In general, embodiments of the present invention may be implemented as a program, firmware, computer program, or computer program product having program code or data, the program code or data operative to perform one of the methods when the program resides on a processor or a computer programmable hardware component expires. The program code or the data can also be stored, for example, on a machine-readable carrier or data carrier. The program code or the data may be present, inter alia, as source code, machine code or bytecode as well as other intermediate code.

Another embodiment is further a data stream, a signal sequence, or a sequence of signals that represents the program for performing any of the methods described herein. The data stream, the signal sequence or the sequence of signals can be configured, for example, to be transferred via a data communication connection, for example via the Internet or another network. Embodiments are also data representing signal sequences that are suitable for transmission over a network or a data communication connection, the data representing the program.

A program according to an exemplary embodiment may implement one of the methods during its execution, for example by reading out or writing into these memory locations one or more data, whereby switching operations or other operations in transistor structures, in amplifier structures or in other electrical, optical, magnetic or other processes caused by another working principle working components. Accordingly, by reading a memory location, data, values, sensor values or other information can be detected, determined or measured by a program. A program can therefore acquire, determine or measure quantities, values, measured variables and other information by reading from one or more storage locations, as well as effect, initiate or execute an action by writing to one or more storage locations and control other devices, machines and components ,

The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of the principles of the present invention. It will be understood that modifications and variations of the arrangements and details described herein will be apparent to others of ordinary skill in the art. Therefore, it is intended that the invention be limited only by the scope of the appended claims and not by the specific details presented in the description and explanation of the embodiments herein.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

100

Operator interface

110

touch-sensitive display element

120

sensor

130

control circuit

140

display area

150

contact member

160

finger

170

detection area

180

another detection area

190

virtual control

S100

Display information

S110

Register a presence in the detection area

S120

Recording a time duration

S130

Register a touch?

S140

Triggering or performing an action

S150

The End

S160

predetermined period of time elapsed?

S170

Playing information or changing the presentation

S180

Playback turned off?

S190

Register a presence in the wider detection area

S200

Predetermined additional period of time elapsed

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• EP 0956219 B1 [0004]
• DE 102009059867 A1 [0004]
• DE 102007029618 A1 [0005]

Claims (15)

Operator interface ( 100 ) comprising: a touch-sensitive display element ( 110 ) and at least one sensor ( 120 ) which are adapted to be mounted on the display element ( 110 ) to display information to a user to make contact with the display element ( 110 ) with a contact element ( 150 ) by the user and by a presence of the touch element ( 150 ) in a detection area ( 170 ), whereby the detection area ( 170 ) to a user-facing side of the display element ( 110 ) connects; and a control circuit ( 130 ) which is adapted to the display element ( 110 ) such that this one an operation of the user interface ( 100 ) facilitating information on the display element ( 110 ) when the touch element ( 150 ) during a predetermined period of time in the detection area (FIG. 170 ) without touching the display element ( 110 ) was registered. Operator interface ( 100 ) according to claim 1, wherein the touch-sensitive display element ( 110 ) and the at least one sensor ( 120 ) are formed such that the detection area ( 170 ) the touch-sensitive display element ( 110 ) substantially completely encloses so that the contact element ( 150 ) the detection area ( 170 ) happens when the user touches the touch element ( 150 ) to the touch-sensitive display element ( 110 ) emotional. Operator interface ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the control circuit ( 130 ) is formed so that the predetermined period of time is at least 3 s. Operator interface ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the control circuit ( 130 ) is formed such that the predetermined period of time of a movement of the contact element ( 150 ) in or through the detection area ( 170 ) is independent. Operator interface ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the control circuit ( 130 ) is formed to the display element ( 110 ) in such a way that the reproduction of the information facilitating operation visually emphasizes at least one virtual operating element displayed on the display element ( 190 ), for example by displaying an edge of the at least one virtual operating element ( 190 ) with thicker and / or color-highlighted lines, for example by a color-highlighted display of the at least one virtual control element ( 190 ), for example by an enlarged display of the at least one virtual operating element ( 190 ), for example by displaying the at least one virtual operating element ( 190 ) in a three-dimensional or an intensified three-dimensional representation, for example by a pulsed display of the at least one virtual operating element ( 190 ) and / or for example by displaying the at least one virtual operating element ( 190 ) with an edge of the at least one virtual control element ( 190 ) surrounding luminous phenomenon, and / or in which the control circuit ( 130 ) is formed to the display element ( 110 ) in such a way that the reproduction of the information facilitating the operation comprises a display of an auxiliary menu and / or an auxiliary display. Operator interface ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the control circuit ( 130 ) is adapted to the reproduction of the operation of the user interface ( 100 ) to make facilitating information turn off. Operator interface ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the touch-sensitive display element ( 110 ) and the at least one sensor ( 120 ) are further adapted to detect a presence of the touch element ( 150 ) in another detection area ( 180 ), whereby the further detection area ( 180 ) on a side facing the user to the detection area ( 170 ), and wherein the control circuit ( 130 ) is formed to the display element ( 110 ) in such a way that this one more the operation of the user interface ( 100 ) reproduces facilitating information when the touch element ( 150 ) during another predetermined period of time in the further detection area ( 180 ) and the detection area ( 170 ) without touching the display element ( 110 ) was registered. Operator interface ( 100 ) according to claim 7, wherein the touch-sensitive display element ( 110 ) and the at least one sensor ( 110 ) are formed such that the further detection area ( 180 ) the detection area ( 170 ) substantially completely encloses so that the contact element ( 150 ) the further detection area ( 180 ) happens when the user touches the touch element ( 150 ) into the detection area ( 170 ) emotional. Operator interface ( 100 ) according to one of claims 7 or 8, in the control circuit ( 130 ) is formed so that the further predetermined period of time is at least 3 s. Operator interface ( 100 ) according to one of claims 7 to 9, in which the control circuit ( 130 ) is formed such that the further predetermined period of time of a movement of the contact element ( 150 ) in or through the further detection area ( 180 ) is independent. Operator interface ( 100 ) according to one of claims 7 to 10, in which the control circuit ( 130 ) is formed to the display element ( 110 ) in such a way that the reproduction of the further operation of the user interface ( 100 ) facilitate discreet highlighting of at least one on the display element ( 110 ) shown virtual control element ( 190 ), for example by displaying an edge of the at least one virtual operating element ( 190 ) with thicker and / or color-highlighted lines, for example by a color-highlighted display of the at least one virtual control element ( 190 ), for example by an enlarged display of the at least one virtual operating element ( 190 ), for example by displaying the at least one virtual operating element ( 190 ) in a three-dimensional or an intensified three-dimensional representation, for example by a pulsed display of the at least one virtual operating element ( 190 ) and / or for example by displaying the at least one virtual operating element ( 190 ) with an edge of the at least one virtual control element ( 190 ) surrounding luminous phenomenon, and / or in which the control circuit ( 130 ) is formed to the display element ( 110 ) in such a way that the reproduction of the further information facilitating the operation comprises a representation of an auxiliary menu and / or an auxiliary display. Operator interface ( 100 ) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the touch-sensitive display element ( 110 ) and the at least one sensor ( 120 ) are formed such that the contact element ( 150 ) at least part of a finger ( 160 ) and / or at least part of a hand. Method for displaying an operation of a user interface ( 100 ) facilitating information, comprising: displaying (S100) information on a touch-sensitive display element ( 110 ) the user interface; Registering (S110) a presence of a touch element ( 150 ) in a detection area ( 170 ), whereby the detection area ( 170 ) to a user-facing side of the display element ( 110 ) connects; and playing (S170) the operation of the user interface (S170) 100 ) facilitating information when the touch element ( 150 ) during a predetermined period of time in the detection area (FIG. 170 ) without touching the display element ( 110 ) was registered. The method of claim 13, further comprising registering (S130) a touch of the touch-sensitive display element (13). 110 ) with the contact element ( 150 ) by the user. Program comprising a program code for carrying out one of the methods according to one of claims 13 or 14, when the program code is executed on a computer, a processor or a programmable hardware component.

Images